‘Farm fresh’ still applies locally: Farmers Market vendors still filling orders

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WILMINGTON — Vendors of fresh, local produce find a way to you during these troubled times.

With the COVID-19 pandemic, the Clinton County Farmers Market hasn’t been able to set up their stands downtown since their first spring market in early March.

But Sally Buchanan, the market’s manager, believes the stay-at-home orders are “very appropriate and necessary” for the community and for individuals.

“I feel I have a responsibility to myself, my family, and the community as a whole to be respectful and follow the restrictions for the good of the whole,” said Buchanan.

The market has provided a list of vendors with their products and contact information so locals can order items from them. Vendors have also continued to plan for the summer, growing and planting their veggies.

“The vendors have been accommodating to customers by providing delivery or arranging for pickup at a site in Wilmington,” said Buchanan.” Our vendors are working hard. This is a very difficult time for them and I applaud their dedication.”

Bank Barn Meats, LLC started at the market last year. They offer a variety of meats including lamb, pork, grass-fed beef, and pastured chicken.

“We have moved much of our sales to be more accommodating of the no-contact process,” said Rachel and Stephen Jarman. “Customers can pay in advance with multiple online payment options. We have even dropped meat off on customers’ porches and doorsteps so that there is the least amount of contact possible.

“We didn’t anticipate any of this on January 1st, but we are doing everything possible to adapt and serve customers.”

While they’ve started taking orders through email — [email protected] — they’ve been working on a website.

“Our production has continued the same as it would if we were preparing for normal market opening dates,” said the Jarmans. “If markets have to operate in a different format than in the past, we will continue to offer products and adapt to those operating standards.”

Beverly and Jeff Drapalik of Ogden Acres have still been taking orders for bread, pastries, veggies, eggs and art products.

“We realize that these are difficult times for everyone. We appreciate the support of our customers and are happy to provide food for our community,” said the Drapaliks.

Vital asset

Sally Buchanan added some advice: “Know where your food is coming from. The vendors are growing and providing locally grown/produced products that are fresh and harvested just before the market — not sitting days or weeks on a trailer for transport from another state.”

She hopes the community continues to support the local farmers and growers.

“The Market has become a vital community asset — not only providing healthy locally grown produce/meats and more but a place to bring people together,” she said. “We promote not only healthy eating but other health awareness.”

For a complete list of vendors, their products and contact info, visit clintoncountyfarmersmarket.com .

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Farmers Market vendors still filling orders

By John Hamilton

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